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8 Emergency Milk Substitutes You Already Have at Home

Out of milk? No problem! These pantry staples work perfectly in recipes and cereal

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Quick Answer

Best emergency milk substitutes: Powdered milk (1/3 cup powder + 1 cup water) for exact milk replacement, heavy cream + water (½ cup each) for rich results, or evaporated milk + water (½ cup each) for cooking and baking.

Running out of milk doesn't have to derail your cooking plans! Whether you're in the middle of baking cookies or need milk for your morning cereal, there are several pantry staples that work beautifully as substitutes.

I've tested these emergency substitutes in everything from coffee to cake recipes, and the results will surprise you. Some actually improve certain recipes!

Here are 8 milk alternatives you probably already have, with exact ratios and the best uses for each one.

The 3 Best Substitutes

1. Powdered Milk + Water

Easy

(5/5)

Substitution Ratio

⅓ cup powder + 1 cup water

Texture: Identical to regular milk

Flavor: Very similar to fresh milk

Best for: All uses - baking, cooking, drinking

Pros & Cons

Perfect substitute

Long shelf life

Always available

Exact same properties

Need to mix well

Slightly different taste

Can be lumpy if not mixed properly

Pro Tip

Mix with small amount of water first. Whisk thoroughly. Chill before drinking.

2. Heavy Cream + Water

Easy

(4/5)

Substitution Ratio

½ cup cream + ½ cup water

Texture: Rich and creamy

Flavor: Richer than regular milk

Best for: Baking, coffee, cooking

Pros & Cons

Creates rich results

Perfect for baking

Great in coffee

Improves many recipes

Higher calories

Richer than milk

Not good for cereal

More expensive

Pro Tip

Excellent for creamy soups. Makes incredibly rich baked goods. Perfect for coffee drinks.

3. Evaporated Milk + Water

Easy

(4/5)

Substitution Ratio

½ cup evaporated milk + ½ cup water

Texture: Slightly thicker than milk

Flavor: Rich, slightly caramelized

Best for: Baking, cooking, coffee

Pros & Cons

Long shelf life

Rich flavor

Great for baking

Always in pantry

Slightly different flavor

Thicker texture

Sweet undertone

Not ideal for cereal

Pro Tip

Excellent in baked goods. Great for creamy sauces. Adds richness to coffee.

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8 Emergency Milk Substitutes You Already Have at Home | Healthy Swap